“We are extremely concerned about this recent rash of homicides. It’s unconscionable that we could go 10 days without a single homicide and then experience so many over the last week,” Roper said. “We examine each incident for commonalities and variables. However, these recent cases appear to have no connections in any manner. For the most part, they do appear to be acquaintance based which makes them more difficult to prevent. In fact, several occurred inside residences or away from public view. “

Since Friday alone, the department has launched five homicide investigations.

“We have experienced tremendous success over the last 6 years in lowering our homicide rate but we realize there is much work to be done as a community,” Roper added. “It will take much more than the police department to overcome the challenges and socioeconomic factors that influence crime. We have adjusted our personnel resources during critical hours but will still need community support and involvement to have the greatest impact. We realize that at the end of the day, there is no substitute for personal responsibility. So as a department we will do everything we can to hold the perpetrators accountable and bring them to justice.”